From Consumer Wiki

JUDGES (PRO TEM)

Most courts use temporary judges to hear Small Claims Court cases (also known as pro tem judges). Before an attorney can serve as a temporary judge, the Judicial Council requires them to have maintained a five-year membership of the State Bar and completion of a special training program by the local court.

Most Courts use the training program sponsored by the California Department of Consumer Affairs entitled, "How to Become a (Better) Small Claims Judge". Attorneys interested in becoming Small Claims Court Judges should contact their local court executive officer. If the court does not have a training program, attorneys can contact the California Department of Consumer Affairs, Legal Affairs for advice on how to bring the training program to their local court.